Alcohol
Research-backed supplements that may help manage symptoms and promote overall well-being during alcohol Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).
The following recommendations are not only supported by science but also informed by our positive experiences working with hundreds of people recovering from chemical dependencies. Unique product links and specific brands are frequently updated for the best quality, pricing and availability. Each item is a trusted brand we endorse.
[Check with your healthcare provider before starting any herbal or nutritional supplements.]
Magnesium Glycinate
Magnesium Glycinate is a mineral that plays a crucial role in lots of bodily functions, including the management of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
During alcohol withdrawal, magnesium levels can become depleted, leading to increased anxiety, restlessness, and muscle cramps. Supplementing with magnesium can help replenish these levels and alleviate these symptoms.
Magnesium also acts as a natural relaxant, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce stress and irritability commonly experienced during acute and post-acute alcohol withdrawal.
RECOMMENDED DOSE: 200-400 mg per day
How it Helps
- Replenishes magnesium levels depleted during alcohol withdrawal
- Alleviates anxiety, restlessness, and muscle cramps
- Calms the nervous system and reduces stress and irritability
- Improves sleep quality and promotes relaxation
- Supports overall well-being and recovery
Glutamine
Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a role in supporting the body’s natural healing process.
During alcohol withdrawal, the body’s glutamine levels can become depleted, leading to various symptoms such as anxiety, cravings, and insomnia. Supplementing can help restore the balance by replenishing these levels and potentially reducing these symptoms.
Glutamine is also involved in neurotransmitter production, particularly GABA, which helps promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. By incorporating glutamine into your protocol, you can support a smoother withdrawal process, reduce cravings, and improve sleep quality, ultimately aiding in your overall recovery journey.
Amount : 1000- 3000 mg per day
How it Helps
- Replenishes glutamine levels depleted during alcohol withdrawal
- Reduces symptoms such as anxiety, cravings, and insomnia
- Supports GABA production for increased calmness and relaxation
- Reduces sugar cravings common in early months following abstinence
- Contributes to improved sleep quality and well-being
B-Complex
B vitamins, collectively known as B-complex, are a group of essential vitamins that play a crucial role in supporting recovery.
Alcohol use can deplete B vitamin levels, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, mood disturbances, and cognitive issues. Supplementing with a B-complex can help replenish these essential nutrients.
They’re also involved in energy production, neurotransmitter synthesis, and overall brain function. By incorporating a B-complex into your supplement protocol, you can boost energy levels, improve mood, and support cognitive function.
AMOUNT : 1 – 3 tablets per day
How It Helps
- Replenishes B vitamin levels depleted during alcohol use
- Reduces symptoms such as fatigue, mood disturbances, and cognitive issues
- Supports energy production and overall brain function
- Enhances mood and promotes a positive outlook
- Contributes to overall well-being and recovery
Vitamin c
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that plays a role in supporting detoxification and boosting immune function.
Alcohol use can deplete the body’s vitamin C levels, which can impair the immune system and slow the body’s ability to detoxify. Supplementing with vitamin C can help replenish these levels and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Additionally, vitamin C supports the production of collagen, which aids in tissue repair and healing, important during recovery from alcohol abuse. By incorporating vitamin C into your supplement protocol, you can enhance immune function, support detoxification, and promote overall well-being.
RECOMMENDED DOSE: 500 – 1000 mg per day in divided doses
How it Helps
- Replenishes vitamin C levels depleted during alcohol use
- Supports immune function and boosts overall immunity
- Aids in detoxification processes
- Supports tissue repair and healing
- Contributes to overall well-being and recovery
NAC
N-Acetyl Cysteine, commonly known as NAC, is an antioxidant that offers several benefits for people recovering from alcohol addiction, including supporting detoxification and reducing cravings.
NAC is involved with replenishing glutathione, a potent antioxidant that aids in detoxification and neutralizing harmful substances. By supplementing with NAC, you can support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Also, NAC has been studied for its potential to reduce cravings, particularly for alcohol. It may help restore balance in the brain’s reward pathway and minimize the desire for alcohol.
RECOMMENDED DOSE: 600 – 1200 mg per day in divided doses
How It Helps
- Supports detoxification by replenishing glutathione levels
- Aids in neutralizing harmful substances in the body
- May reduce cravings, particularly for alcohol
- Supports the restoration of balance in the brain’s reward pathway
5-HTP
5-HTP, or 5-Hydroxytryptophan, is an amino acid that plays a role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation and sleep quality.
While 5-HTP can be beneficial for people seeking mood balance and improved sleep during alcohol recovery, it’s important to note that it is not recommended for those who are currently taking prescription antidepressants or other medications that affect serotonin levels. Combining 5-HTP with these medications can potentially lead to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition.
Amount : 100 – 400 mg per day in divided doses
How it Helps
- Promotes mood balance and supports emotional well-being
- Enhances serotonin production for improved mood regulation
- Supports restful sleep and sleep quality
- May aid in the management of alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Note: Not recommended for individuals taking prescription antidepressants or medications that affect serotonin levels
Inositol
Inositol is a naturally occurring compound that plays a role in promoting mood stability and reducing anxiety.
During post-acute alcohol withdrawal (PAWS), imbalances in brain chemistry can contribute to mood disturbances and heightened anxiety. Inositol acts as a precursor to various neurotransmitters, including serotonin and GABA, which are essential for regulating mood and promoting feelings of calmness.
Supplementing with inositol can help restore these imbalances and support overall mood stability. It may also aid in lessening anxiety symptoms commonly experienced during the first few months.
RECOMMENDED DOSE: 1000 – 2000 mg
How It Helps
- Supports mood stability and promotes emotional well-being
- Acts as a precursor to neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA
- Reduces anxiety symptoms
- Provides a sense of calm and relaxation
- Aids with sleep
Turmeric
Turmeric, a yellow spice commonly used in cooking, offers a range of health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties and potential mood-supporting effects, which can be helpful during PAWS.
Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation. Alcohol abuse and withdrawal can lead to increased inflammation.
Also, turmeric has been studied for its potential mood-supporting effects. It may help promote a positive outlook and support emotional well-being.
To enhance the absorption of curcumin, it’s recommended to take turmeric with black pepper or in combination with a fat source.
Amount : Follow the instructions on the package
How it Helps
- Offers anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation in the body
- Supports the body’s natural healing process during recovery
- Potential mood-supporting effects for emotional well-being
- Note: Consume turmeric with black pepper or in combination with a fat source for enhanced curcumin absorption
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
GLA, or Gamma-Linolenic Acid, is an omega-6 fatty acid with potential benefits for in alcohol recovery.
Alcohol abuse and withdrawal can disrupt hormonal levels in the body, leading to various symptoms such as mood swings and hormonal imbalances. Supplementing with GLA can help promote hormonal balance, potentially alleviating these symptoms.
Additionally, GLA possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural healing process during recovery.
RECOMMENDED DOSE: 300 – 600 mg per day in divided doses
How It Helps
- Supports hormonal balance during post-acute alcohol withdrawal
- Potentially reduces symptoms like mood swings and hormonal imbalances
- Offers anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation in the body
- Supports the body’s natural healing process
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Please note: Dosage, frequency, duration, and combination recommendations of all listed products vary considerably depending upon your unique situation and needs. Check with your healthcare provider before starting any herbal or nutritional supplements, as they may interact with medications or exacerbate certain disease states.
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